Succulents and cacti are among the easiest plants to care for, making them perfect for beginners. They require minimal watering, thrive in bright conditions, and come in a variety of unique shapes and colors. However, improper care can still lead to problems like overwatering, root rot, and slow growth. In this guide, you’ll learn the best tips to keep your succulents and cacti thriving.
1. Understanding Succulents and Cacti
Before diving into care tips, it’s important to understand what makes succulents and cacti unique:
🌵 Succulents store water in their thick leaves and stems, making them drought-resistant.
🌞 Cacti are a type of succulent that typically have spines instead of leaves to reduce water loss.
💦 Both thrive in dry environments but require proper care to avoid overwatering.
Now, let’s go over the best practices to keep them healthy.
2. Choosing the Right Soil
The right soil is crucial for succulents and cacti to prevent root rot.
✅ Use well-draining soil – A cactus/succulent mix is ideal.
✅ Avoid regular potting soil – It holds too much moisture, which can cause rot.
✅ DIY soil mix – Combine potting soil + sand + perlite or pumice for better drainage.
3. Picking the Right Pot
Choosing the correct pot ensures healthy root growth.
🏺 Terracotta pots – The best option because they absorb excess moisture.
🚫 Avoid glass or plastic pots – They hold too much moisture and increase the risk of rot.
💧 Drainage holes are essential – Never plant succulents or cacti in pots without drainage!
4. Proper Watering Techniques
💡 Overwatering is the #1 killer of succulents and cacti! Follow these rules to avoid it:
✅ Water only when the soil is completely dry – Stick your finger 1-2 inches deep; if it’s dry, it’s time to water.
✅ Use the “soak and dry” method – Water deeply until it drains out of the bottom, then wait until the soil dries out before watering again.
✅ Reduce watering in winter – Succulents enter dormancy and need less water during colder months.
✅ Avoid misting – Succulents and cacti don’t need humidity; misting can cause rot.
General Watering Frequency
- Summer: Every 7-10 days (depends on heat and sun exposure)
- Winter: Every 3-4 weeks (reduce watering)
- Indoor succulents: Every 10-14 days (check soil moisture)
5. Providing the Right Amount of Light
Succulents and cacti love sunlight, but too much or too little can cause problems.
Outdoor Placement
🌞 Full sun for at least 6 hours daily (ideal for cacti and drought-tolerant succulents).
⛅ Partial shade for delicate succulents (e.g., jade plants or echeveria).
Indoor Placement
🌤 Bright, indirect light near a window – Best for indoor succulents.
💡 Use grow lights if your home lacks natural sunlight.
🚨 Warning: If leaves become stretched and thin, your succulent is not getting enough light. Move it to a sunnier location.
6. Temperature and Humidity Needs
Succulents and cacti thrive in warm, dry conditions.
🌡 Ideal Temperature:
- 65–80°F (18–27°C) during the day
- No lower than 50°F (10°C) at night
💧 Humidity:
- Low humidity is best – Avoid placing them in bathrooms or kitchens.
- Ensure airflow – Good ventilation prevents mold and fungus.
7. Fertilizing for Growth
Although succulents and cacti don’t need much fertilizer, occasional feeding helps them grow stronger.
🌿 Use a cactus/succulent fertilizer (low nitrogen, high phosphorus).
📅 Apply fertilizer only during the growing season (spring and summer).
🚫 Avoid fertilizing in winter – The plants go dormant and don’t need extra nutrients.
8. Propagating Succulents and Cacti
Want more succulents? Propagation is easy!
Leaf Propagation (For Succulents)
- Gently twist off a healthy leaf.
- Let it dry for 2-3 days to form a callus.
- Place it on dry soil and mist lightly every few days.
- Small roots and baby plants will appear in a few weeks!
Cutting Propagation (For Cacti & Succulents with Stems)
- Use a sharp knife to cut a piece of the plant.
- Let it dry for several days before planting.
- Place in dry soil and water lightly after a week.
9. Common Problems and How to Fix Them
🚨 Problem: Mushy, yellow, or black leaves
🔹 Cause: Overwatering
✅ Solution: Stop watering and let the soil dry completely.
🚨 Problem: Stretched, pale leaves
🔹 Cause: Not enough sunlight
✅ Solution: Move the plant to a sunnier spot or use a grow light.
🚨 Problem: Brown or crispy leaves
🔹 Cause: Too much direct sun or low humidity
✅ Solution: Move to a slightly shaded area.
🚨 Problem: Wrinkled, shriveled leaves
🔹 Cause: Underwatering
✅ Solution: Water deeply, but don’t overdo it!
10. Enjoy Your Healthy Succulents and Cacti!
With the right care, succulents and cacti can thrive for years, adding beauty and greenery to your home. Just remember these key tips:
🌵 Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes
💦 Water only when the soil is dry (don’t overwater!)
☀ Give them plenty of sunlight, but avoid scorching heat
🌡 Keep them in warm, dry conditions
🪴 Fertilize lightly during the growing season
Now that you know the essentials, you can grow healthy, thriving succulents and cacti with ease!